The Srinagar district administration took action against over 50 stores and 80 vehicle-owners for violation of restrictions.
The action was taken during an inspection that the District Magistrate Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary conducted.
The DM inspected markets at several places including Sanantnagar, Hyderpora, Chhanpora, Bagh-e-Mehtab, Jawahar Nagar, south city and Batmalloo. Tehsildars Chanpora and South and SHOs concerned accompanied him.
During the inspection it was found that a large number of non-essential and non-permitted shops including readymade garments, furniture, hardware, and others were illegally operating. Violations of social distancing norms and hygiene were also seen at many department stores and bakeries.
Hundreds of people were found inside shops in complete violation of social distancing norms posing a serious threat. In view of such violations more than 50 shops including a shopping mall and department stores were sealed by concerned Executive Magistrates and SHOs on the occasion.
On the occasion a large number of vehicles were also checked for violations. Random inspections of vehicles held on the occasion revealed that maximum number of vehicles were moving without passes or emergencies.
For violation of norms action as warranted under the Disaster Management Act 2005 has been initiated against more than 80 vehicles. The RTO Kashmir has been asked to take the necessary action in the matter.
The DDMA has imposed a fine of Rs 10000 each in case of violations by stores in shopping malls and department stores and a fine of Rs 1000 each is being imposed against vehicles found plying in violation of norms.
Meanwhile teams in Tehsils across the district swung into action and took action commercial establishment found involved ok overpricing. Some 15 establishments found to be overcharging from customers were fined during the inspection.
The district administration has asked all commercial establishments as well as the general public to ensure strict adherence to notified norms of lockdown and avoid all forms gatherings and crowds. Bakers have been asked to home-deliver items to customers in their areas of jurisdiction as per terms of agreement and the general public has been urged to avoid gathering in bakeries.
Speaking in reference to it the DC expressed concerns about violations in of social distancing guidelines and closure orders. He appealed to the general public to observe the lockdown in letter and spirit warning of strict punishments for violations under the law.